ITV makes bombshell move as major channel set to close after 42 years

ITV makes bombshell move as major channel set to close after 42 yearsA huge channel, which has launched the careers of several well-known telly stars, is reportedly being taken off air after 42 years, leaving some viewers heartbrokenCommentsTVVictoria Johns Showbiz Reporter14:48, 04 Apr 2026Updated 15:05, 04 Apr 2026View 2 ImagesITV is closing one of its biggest channels(Image: ITV)ITV is closing one of its biggest channels - leaving some viewers heartbroken, according to reports. In bombshell news, the iconic CITV is shutting down for good after 42 years, with its last broadcast on ITV2 scheduled for April 10.‌Having launched the careers of several well-known telly stars, including Stephen Mulhern, Holly Willoughby and Cat Deeley, the channel also aired much-loved shows, such as Art Attack with Neil Buchanan, Tots TV and Horrid Henry.‌CITV officially closed in 2023, however a programming block showing all the classics launched on ITV2, so viewers could still get their fix. But now, it's no more, with the channel reportedly being shut down for good. Announcing the news of the CITV's demise this week, a social media account said: “This really means the end of the iconic CITV brand that’s been around for 42 years. Farewell CITV, this time for real."‌View 2 ImagesCITV launched the careers of telly veterans, including Holly Willoughby(Image: CiTV)However, revealing that some of the shows would be picked up by CBBC while the rest will be under ITVX Kids, the post continued: “CBBC will have some of CITV’s programming while the rest will be under ITVX Kids.”Reacting to the news, one fan lamented: “That’s actually depressing. CITV was my childhood.” Another wrote: “They stoped making original content like 5+ years ago and was just airing shows other places have though. It was such a insult it did not even get a real send off on ITV either.”‌Meanwhile, a third mused: “End of an era …. I remember watching the Pokémon movies on this channel.”Ensure our latest he...